Football: Sam Hart joins Rochdale on loan from Blackburn

Sam Hart has signed to Dale on loan

Sam Hart has signed on loan for Rochdale from Blackburn Rovers.

The 21-year-old defender has joined Dale until the end of the season.

Hart said: “I’m really excited to be here.”

“The clubs have been talking to each other for a little while, so I’m glad that we’ve got it over the line.

“I spoke to the manager and the coaches before joining the club and they were all very positive towards getting me here, so I’m enthusiastic about being at Rochdale and I’m looking forward to kicking on.”

Bolton-born Hart came through Manchester United's academy ranks before moving to Liverpool during the 2012-13 campaign at the age of 16.

He quickly progressed from Liverpool's Under-18 side to become a regular for their development squad, before gaining valuable league experience by spending six-months on loan at League One Port Vale during the 2016-17, making 16 appearances.

He joined Blackburn for an undisclosed fee from Liverpool at the start of this season and has featured seven times, including against Dale in the Checkatrade Trophy tie at the Crown Oil Arena.